The search for noninvasive methods to identify liver fibrosis in children with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease

Abstract

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the hepatic manifestation of the obesity epidemic. Recent studies have clearly shown that the stage of fibrosis in adults with NAFLD is the most important histological feature in long-term outcomes and the development of liver-related complications. Despite the paucity of data regarding the natural history of pediatric NAFLD, its progression to cirrhosis and end-stage liver disease requiring liver transplantation is well documented. Given the high prevalence of NAFLD in children and adults, there is an urgent need to find safe and cost-effective alternatives to biopsy to determine the stage of liver fibrosis. In this review, we provide a concise overview of different noninvasive methods for diagnosing and staging liver fibrosis in children with NAFLD.